It is highly recommended to study the AIP of the respective country in advance. Each country may deviate from the global ICAO guidelines in some areas and you should inform yourself in advance in order to be prepared accordingly.
We have summarised the most important information for each country in the Pilot Hub.
In this article, we will look at general issues such as the necessary licences and requirements, the necessary preparation and things like entry and customs.
You will also find an overview of the various country-specific regulations at the end of the article.
The freedom to independently undertake international flights as a pilot is a fascinating facet of private aviation. However, this freedom comes with a number of responsibilities and requirements, especially when it comes to cross-border aviation. The key to a successful and smooth flight abroad lies in careful preparation and knowledge of the necessary documents, licences and regulations.
Licences and authorisations
A basic understanding of the various pilot licences and their validity in different countries is crucial. You can find all the important information about licences in our Pilot Hub Academy. The Private Pilot Licence (PPL), for example, which is issued in accordance with the ICAO standard, is recognised worldwide. You can therefore travel to all ICAO member states with this licence. In contrast, the Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL), an EASA-specific licence, is only valid within EASA member states. It is important to bear this in mind, as it is not possible to fly to Great Britain, for example, or to fly through Albania to Greece, for example. Pilots flying microlight aircraft (UL) must also be aware of the limitations of their licences, as some countries may not offer recognition.
There are also special considerations when flying an aircraft registered in the USA (N-registered). As long as you are only flying in your home country, the licence acquired there is sufficient (e.g. the PPL licence acquired in Germany). However, if you want to fly abroad, you must have both a US licence and a corresponding European licence (see also the section below).
From July 2025, holders of a US licence will also need a US postal address. See also the corresponding news article in the Pilot Hub.
Radio certificates and language skills
A radiotelephony licence is required to operate an aeronautical radio station on board a German aircraft. For international flights, the restricted radiotelephony certificate II (BZF II) is not sufficient; a BZF I or a general radiotelephony certificate (AZF) is required. In addition, an ICAO language certificate level 4 or higher is required for radio communication in English. It is important to note that these are two different things and both a radiotelephony certificate and the ICAO language certificate are required. More about this in our Academy.
This also applies to pilots of N-registered aircraft. The US licence already includes the radiotelephony authorisation (which makes much more sense), so that no additional radiotelephony certificate is required in the USA itself. However, if you fly with the N-registered aircraft outside the USA, you do need this. In this case, however, you can easily obtain it from the US telecommunications authority FCC on presentation of the licence.
Travel documents and aeroplane documents
The need for valid travel documents such as an identity card or passport depending on the destination is obvious. You should always inform yourself in advance. For example, a passport is of course required for flights to the UK after Brexit.
For pilots of US-registered aircraft, it is equally important to carry the documents for customs clearance and taxation of the aircraft when importing into the European economic area.
Fuelling cards
A seemingly trivial, but in practice very important preparation is the procurement of fuel cards for refuelling abroad. As many airports outside Germany use automatic refuelling machines that require special fuel cards, it is advisable to equip yourself accordingly in advance. The AirBP card and the Total Energies card are examples of such fuel cards that enable problem-free refuelling. In particular, we would like to recommend the AirBP Sterlingcard. There are AirBP refuelling stations in many countries and the cards are accordingly very widespread and sometimes you can only pay with these cards, or at least it is easier. The card can be applied for at www.bp.com/sterlingcard and is always specific to one pilot and one aircraft.
Choosing a destination is the first step in planning a flight abroad. Sources of inspiration such as specialist articles, reports from other pilots on platforms such as eddh.de and discussions in pilot forums provide valuable ideas. Digital navigation apps and paper maps help to gain an initial overview of possible routes and destinations.
In any case, the flight should be carefully planned. The Standardised European Rules of the Air (SERA) regulate the requirements for flight preparation in SERA.2010. These apply to Germany as well as to neighbouring EASA countries. We have summarised all the important aspects of flight preparation in the Pilot Hub.
Important documents and regulations
It is essential to study the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) of the countries to be flown over. These publications, available online or in navigation apps, contain important information on airspace, procedures, aerodromes and special regulations. The ENR (Enroute) and AD (Aerodromes) sections are of particular interest, as they provide information on the need for flight plans and specific approach procedures.
We have linked the AIPs of most European countries in the Pilot Hub!
Border police, customs and Airport of Entry
A critical aspect of international flights is the handling of border police and customs formalities. The need for border police clearance depends on the Schengen Agreement and national regulations. Customs checks are particularly relevant for flights to or from non-EU countries. In some cases, landing at a specially designated Airport of Entry is required. This information can be found in the AIP of the destination country and the departure destination. See also the section further down in the article.
Flight planning
The creation of a flight plan is mandatory for cross-border flights in most countries. Modern tools and navigation apps make it much easier to create and submit flight plans. Important information in the flight plan includes the planned route, estimated times for entering foreign airspace (EET) and special equipment characteristics. It is advisable to plan waypoints and FIR border crossings precisely and make a note of them in the flight plan.
As a rule, flight plans must be submitted to EOBT 60 minutes before the expected blocking time.
Weather briefing
Of course, the same weather briefing requirements apply for international flights as for domestic flights. However, this takes on a different flavour due to the often greater distance. You will often want to climb higher than on short flights. As a rule, you can expect less turbulence at higher altitudes. However, whether it is worth climbing high depends on the wind conditions and the performance of the aircraft. If you are flying VFR, the issue of "flying above clouds" can become relevant.
For cross-country flights, you should always take a close look at the conditions at the departure point, the destination and the places on the journey. METARs and TAFs are available for this, as well as meteograms, cross-sections and other things. We have summarised links to specific weather information pages for each country in the information on the individual countries.
Airspaces
It is important to find out in advance about the airspace on the flight route. There may be different regulations depending on the country. There are also airspaces in certain countries that do not necessarily exist in Germany (e.g. Airspace A in Italy) and also other forms (e.g. ATZ - Aerodrome Traffic Zones that do not exist in Germany, but do exist in neighbouring countries). The legislation in the airspaces can also be different. While in Germany, for example, IFR traffic in airspace G is only permitted on specified approach and departure routes, in most other European countries IFR is also generally possible in airspace G.
We have tried to summarise important country-specific differences. However, you should always obtain additional information and ideally study the AIP of the respective country.
Practical tips for travelling
In addition to the necessary documents and fuel cards, it is also advisable to think about practical items such as oil for the engine, warning waistcoats, lashing ropes and ground anchors for the journey. It is also advisable to take an additional charging cable and a power bank for navigation devices, sufficient cash and a credit card, as well as overwater equipment if necessary.
Thoroughly preparing for a flight abroad can seem time-consuming, but with the right planning and the available digital tools, it is quite manageable. It is important to familiarise yourself with the regulations and requirements of the countries concerned at an early stage and to have all the necessary documents and information to hand.
It can also be useful to access the experience of other pilots. Here you can often obtain important information or useful tips that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to obtain. Magazines, navigation apps or platforms such as www.eddh.de can help here.
There are two different issues that need to be considered here. On the one hand, certain rules apply to member states of the EU, on the other hand, there are countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement, or are not, or have not fully implemented it.
As a general rule, if countries have signed the Schengen Agreement, no passport controls are required. If the country is part of the EU, no customs clearance is required. Schengen and EU are now possible in any combination. Countries that are members of the EU AND have implemented the Schengen Agreement, i.e. where there is no passport control or customs, are Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, the Czech Republic and Hungary.
Members of the EU are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden. No customs inspection is therefore necessary here.
The following EU countries are members of Schengen: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
In addition, the non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
If you want to enter countries where either customs clearance and/or border control is required (if the country is not part of the EU AND the Schengen Agreement), then some countries require that you are only allowed to enter via certain airports where a corresponding check can be carried out. These are called airports of entry.
For flights within the EU, as described above, no customs clearance is required. But what is the situation when travelling outside the EU?
In the recent past, there has been significant relief for general aviation as a result of changes to the European Union's customs regulations. At the centre of this is the amendment to Article 141 in EU Regulation 2020/877 of April 2020, which allows duty-free goods and aircraft to be transported on cross-border flights without prior declaration at customs aerodromes. This regulation applies to private travellers who are not carrying prohibited or restricted goods.
This simplification is seen as particularly beneficial for general aviation, as it allows pilots to avoid visiting a customs aerodrome when flying in and out of countries such as Switzerland. However, the unclear and in some cases still unadapted implementation of this new regulation at national level in Germany and in some other EU countries has led to uncertainty.
A particular problem is the practice of customs offices to declare their information as "not legally binding", which has led to caution among pilots in the past.
To clarify these uncertainties, AOPA-Germany contacted the Directorate General of Customs in Bonn and received an answer that provides clarity: The legal amendment has been in force since 16 July 2020, regardless of the pending adjustment of the national regulation. This enables an implied customs declaration by simply crossing the border, as long as the requirements for a customs and import VAT-free transfer are met. However, this only applies to flights to the EU and not to flights to other countries outside the EU! Here, of course, the respective national laws apply.
However, it is important to note that the above information should be checked before departure using the AIP of the respective country and other information. For example, some countries such as France have suspended the Schengen Agreement during the Corona period. There are also countries such as Greece that are part of Schengen but still carry out entry checks. The following therefore applies: All information provided here Information is of course not legal advice and we strongly recommend that you check this before you fly.
Belgium may seem daunting at first glance due to its dense network of aerodromes, airspaces and restricted areas, but it offers a number of rewarding destinations for pilots. The challenge is to navigate between the various control zones, which is easily achievable with a little planning and knowledge of local regulations.
Interesting facts for pilots
Highlights in Belgium
Denmark, known for its picturesque landscapes and the famous Danish South Sea with its numerous islands, offers pilots a particularly inviting flying experience. The flat topography and the high density of friendly, uncomplicated aerodromes make the country an ideal destination for flying enthusiasts.
Interesting facts for pilots
Excursion tips in Denmark
This is a very specific topic and only relevant if you have a US pilot licence (e.g. PPL) and want to fly in the EASA area. While this was previously possible with the US licence, since mid-2023 a transfer to a European EASA licence has been necessary. This step is necessary for all pilots with a US licence residing in the EASA area who wish to fly N-registered aircraft in Europe. A bilateral agreement between the EU and the USA, known as BASA (Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement), and its technical implementation provisions in TIP-L (Technical Implementation Procedures for Airworthiness and Environmental Certification), have simplified the conversion process.
Key points and requirements for the transcription:
Rewriting process for specific authorisations:
PPL (Private Pilot Licence): After applying to the state aviation authority and obtaining an EASA certificate of airworthiness and the required radiotelephony licence, only a practical test is required. The theoretical knowledge is also tested.
Night flight authorisation: A minimum of 5 hours flying time at night is required, including 3 hours with instructor, 1 hour cross-country flight and 5 solo takeoffs and landings. FAA training is recognised.
Instrument rating (IFR): A simple revalidation is possible if more than 50 hours of IFR flight time as PIC (Pilot in Command) can be demonstrated. It is important to note that the FAA counts one flight hour as IFR time when flying exclusively under instruments, whereas the EASA counts flight time under IFR flight plan, even in good weather. If you have less than 50 hours of IFR experience, a written theory test is also required. Acclimatisation flights are also necessary if there are no 10 hours of PIC under IFR in the EASA area.
Recommendations:
- Early application for transfer of the licence including the necessary additional authorisations and checks.
- Refreshing European theory knowledge for the practical exam.
- Aim for at least 50 hours of IFR flight time as PIC to avoid the expense of the theory test.
In summary, pilots with a US licence who wish to fly in Europe must go through this revalidation process to obtain the required European licences and ratings.
France, the country known for its exquisite cuisine, impressive landscapes and rich history, also offers an unrivalled experience for pilots. The variety of flying destinations ranges from the beaches of the Côte d'Azur to the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. But before you take to the skies above France, there are a few special features to bear in mind.
Interesting facts for pilots
Excursion tips
A highly recommended website with lots of detailed information can be found here: http://www.fliegen-in-frankreich.de/
Flying in Great Britain and Ireland is a unique adventure, characterised by idyllic landscapes, historic sights and famous hospitality. However, aviation in these countries has its own special features that need to be taken into account.
With Brexit, the entry procedures for pilots have changed. Completing the General Aviation Report (GAR) at least two hours before arrival is a must. It can be found here: www.submit-general-aviation-report.service.gov.uk. Such a form must also be completed for departure. Since 2024, however, not every aerodrome may be approached directly. The airfield must be a so-called "regulated aerodrome" or have the status "customs and excise designated". There is a list of all aerodromes that fulfil these conditions: www.gov.uk/government/publications/general-aviation-operators-and-pilots-notification-of-flights.
From 2 April 2025, all Europeans will also need an "Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)" to enter the UK.
The varied landscape and complex airspace, particularly around London and along the south coast, require thorough flight preparation. A moving map is essential.
Great Britain is characterised by a high density of Aerodrome Traffic Zones (ATZs). Entry into controlled zones requires clearance or at least radio contact. The FIS services, London Information and Scottish Information, as well as the Low Altitude Radar Service (LARS) provide support. In contrast to Germany with the "Request Traffic Information", four different services can be requested from FIS in Great Britain: Basic Service (here you receive QNH and weather warnings but no traffic information), Traffic Service (here you receive additional traffic information), deconfliction service (offers a type of separation, but requires an instrument rating) and procedural service (for separation of flights without radar for instrument approaches).
The "overhead join" is a characteristic approach procedure at British aerodromes. In addition, there are specific radio phrases and procedures that differ from those in other countries. Prior notification (PPR) is required for many aerodromes.
Interesting facts for pilots
A very good website with lots of information can be found here: http://www.fliegen-in-uk.de/
As a member of the EU, Ireland facilitates flight operations, although border clearance is required. Ireland's scenic beauty, from the dramatic cliffs to the rolling hills, makes every flight an unforgettable experience.
Ireland has a less complex airspace structure than the UK, with the exception of the airspace around Shannon. The air traffic controllers are known for their helpfulness and relaxed attitude.
In Ireland, the airfields are less dense and many are also used by airlines. However, the Emerald Isle offers some of the most spectacular aerial views in Europe, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Slieve League cliffs.
Interesting facts for pilots
Italy, with its diverse landscape, rich history and cultural diversity, is a dream destination for many pilots. However, flying in Italy poses a particular challenge with its alpine challenges, complex airspace structures and specific operating procedures.
The first step on the road to Italy is often over the Alps, with the Brenner route a popular choice. The Italian landscape itself is far from flat, with the Apennines running north to south across the country and the Abruzzo mountains, whose highest peak, the Gran Sasso, reaches 9500 feet. The coasts, however, offer mostly free flight opportunities as long as the weather co-operates.
Italian airspace can be particularly challenging for foreign pilots. Many areas, especially above 1000 feet AGL, are covered with class D control zones, which may only be flown through with clearance. Open and direct communication with air traffic control is crucial. It is customary to state right at the beginning of a radio call if there is no flight plan ("no flight plan") to avoid misunderstandings.
There are four main categories of aerodromes in Italy, from the large "Avioporti" with strict operating regulations and handling fees to the small "Campo di Volo" for microlight aircraft. The availability of avgas is particularly limited in the south of Italy and can have a significant impact on route planning. Careful preparation and liaising with the destinations is therefore essential.
Italy offers a wealth of flying and cultural experiences. From the historic city of Venice, which is easy to reach from Lido di Venezia Airport, to the operatic nights in Verona or the charm of Tuscany - Italy has something for everyone. A flight over the volcanic islands or the Amalfi Coast is a special experience, even if access by plane can sometimes be restricted.
Interesting facts for pilots
A very good website with lots of information can be found here: http://www.fliegen-in-italien.de/
Croatia, which lies on the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and offers an abundance of islands, historic towns and picturesque coastlines, has been a Schengen member since the beginning of 2023.
Interesting facts for pilots
Excursion tips
Luxembourg may be a special case due to the small number of aerodromes (one grass field and the large international airport), but it still offers interesting flying experiences, especially thanks to Luxembourg International Airport (ELLX).
Interesting facts for pilots
Highlights in Luxembourg
The Netherlands offers pilots a flat and therefore relatively easy flying terrain. However, the high density of airspace and the proximity to major airports such as Amsterdam require careful planning.
Interesting facts for pilots
Highlights in the Netherlands
With its dramatic fjords, high mountains and breathtaking coastline, Norway offers an unrivalled flying experience. However, the flying challenges, especially due to the terrain and weather, should not be underestimated.
Interesting facts for pilots
Excursion tips in Norway
Flying in Austria offers a breathtaking backdrop, especially when travelling through the majestic Alps. However, in addition to the spectacular scenery, pilots should also be aware of the special challenges and regulations that flying in this country entails.
Special features of flying in Austria
The Alps are one of the biggest attractions for pilots, but they also come with risks, such as changing weather conditions and the need to manage the aircraft at higher altitudes. Experience in mountain flying or a special briefing is strongly recommended.
Austria offers numerous attractive flight destinations. For example, flying along the Danube valley offers a way to avoid the Alps and still enjoy breathtaking views. Aerodromes such as Zell am See or St. Johann not only offer spectacular approaches, but also a hospitable atmosphere or make it possible to land virtually in a ski resort.
If you want to continue to southern Europe, you will most likely fly through Austria or Switzerland and then have to cross the Alps. To fly around the Alps you either have to fly west over the Rhone valley in France or east over Vienna, Graz and then Slovenia.
If you are flying over the Alps, there are a number of passes that are suitable, such as the route over the Brenner Pass. There are numerous tips and experiences that can be found by searching the internet.
Important notes
Poland offers pilots a rich palette of landscapes and historical sites, from the Baltic coast to the Giant Mountains. The variety of flight destinations ranges from the Hanseatic city of Gdansk to the Masurian Lake District. The proximity to non-EU countries requires special attention to airspace, especially the ADIZs on the borders with Ukraine, Belarus and Kaliningrad.
Interesting facts for pilots in Poland
Excursion tips in Poland
Portugal is an attractive destination for pilots. Despite the introduction of an environment-related route tax, which initially caused concern, private flights with small aircraft appear to be exempt from this tax. Experience shows that the practical implementation of the tax for foreign visitors does not take place due to implementation difficulties.
The number of airfields in Portugal may be fewer than in Spain, but they offer access to all the interesting regions of the country. From Porto to the Algarve, via Lisbon, there are various options for pilots, depending on the desired region and the specific local conditions, such as handling duties and fuel availability.
Interesting facts for pilots
Romania, a country full of history and natural beauty, awaits the visiting pilot with the Carpathian Mountains, the Danube and the Black Sea. From impressive gorges in the Carpathian Mountains to the vast sandy beaches of the Black Sea, there is much to discover here.
Interesting facts for pilots in Romania
Excursion tips in Romania
Sweden attracts pilots with its extensive forests, coasts and the famous archipelago coast. Flying here is characterised by vast landscapes and a large number of unmanned but well-equipped airfields.
Interesting facts for pilots
Excursion tips in Sweden
Switzerland, with its even higher Alpine peaks than Austria, offers unique challenges and unforgettable experiences for pilots. However, flying here requires careful planning and knowledge of the local regulations.
Special features of flying in Switzerland
Although Switzerland is part of the Schengen area, it is not part of the EU. This has an impact on customs clearance when entering and leaving the country. See also our information on the subject of tolls in the Pilot Hub. In addition, microlight aircraft must apply for special licences and a special briefing is required for certain airfields, such as Samedan.
Important notes
Excursion tips
A flight to Lausanne aerodrome on Lake Geneva or to Buochs near Lake Lucerne not only offers magnificent scenery, but also good connections for exploring the surrounding area. For the more adventurous, a flight around the Alps with destinations such as the Matterhorn or the Aletsch Glacier offers an unrivalled experience, but requires good weather and adequate preparation.
Slovakia, known for its numerous castles, palaces and the breathtaking Tatra Mountains, offers unique flying experiences. The historical and scenic diversity makes the country an attractive destination for pilots in search of adventure.
Interesting facts for pilots in Slovakia
Excursion tips in Slovakia
Slovenia, nestled between the majestic Alps and the picturesque Adriatic coast, is a Schengen member, which makes it easier for pilots from other Schengen states to enter the country.
Interesting facts for pilots
Excursion tips
Aviation in Spain offers a fascinating mix of breathtaking landscapes, a rich history and a multitude of cultural monuments. The intense colours of the earth, from yellow to brown to orange, and the vast fields of olive and almond trees and vines characterise the interior and make flying an incomparable experience. However, aviation on the Iberian Peninsula is associated with a number of bureaucratic hurdles and obstacles, including expensive handling fees at many Spanish airports.
Spanish airspace is often dominated by class D or C areas, but with a little planning and communication with the controllers, these obstacles can be easily overcome. Particularly in central Spain and along special VFR routes, such as west of Madrid, flying through is often unproblematic. On the Mediterranean coast, near major airports such as Barcelona or Alicante, navigation is more challenging. Here, a precise study of the airspace structure and direct contact with the controllers is essential in order to avoid airspace violations and fines.
The availability of avgas (you should call and ask beforehand to be sure) and the need to provide a VAT ID when paying for fuel (in Spain every citizen has a VAT ID, but here only companies do. If you are asked for one, you can simply give any number you like. This has no consequences for the holder of the ID. The fuel in Spain is already fully taxed), are specific peculiarities when refuelling in Spain.
A special issue is handling. At smaller aerodromes not managed by AENA, such as Ampuriabrava or Mutxamel, there are no bureaucratic hurdles and you can simply land without PPR and without handling. However, you have to be careful at larger aerodromes managed by the aviation service provider ANEA. These aerodromes often have a handling obligation, which can be very expensive, as the handling agents are free to set their own prices! It is essential to be familiar with the agreement between AOPA Spain and AENA: www.aopa-spain.org/index.php/es/defensa-de-la-ag/handling. You should definitely choose a commercial airline handling agent such as Iberia. A simplified handling service (escort service to the aircraft) has been agreed with them for 11 euros gross. Therefore, you should definitely apply for this handling service before the flight until you receive confirmation of the "servicio de acompanamiento en plataforma".
Interesting facts for pilots
The Czech Republic attracts visitors with the historical beauty of Prague, the world-famous breweries in Pilsen and Budweis and the picturesque landscapes along the border to the Giant Mountains. The Czech Republic is particularly attractive due to its rich history and well-developed infrastructure for general aviation.
Interesting facts for pilots in the Czech Republic
Excursion tips in the Czech Republic
Hungary, located directly behind Austria, offers a multitude of cultural and natural attractions. From the vibrant capital Budapest to the idyllic Lake Balaton, the country offers a variety of experiences for flying visitors.
Interesting facts for pilots in Hungary
Excursion tips in Hungary